Chili Mac Pasta Bake

Comfort food lovers, get ready to meet your new favorite weeknight dinner: Chili Mac Pasta Bake. This dish combines the hearty, spicy flavors of chili with the cheesy, satisfying texture of baked pasta. It’s the perfect meal to feed a crowd or to enjoy as leftovers on busy days. With a blend of ground meat, beans, tomatoes, and two types of cheese, this casserole hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s easy to customize and even easier to love.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Chili Mac Pasta Bake isn’t just another casserole. It’s a crowd-pleaser that marries two classics – chili and macaroni – into one irresistible dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or need a make-ahead meal for busy nights, this bake is your answer. The rich flavors meld together during baking, creating a dish that’s bursting with warmth, spice, and cheesy goodness. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber thanks to the beans and ground meat, making it as nourishing as it is delicious.

If you’re a fan of easy dinners, you might also enjoy the Good Ole Mac And Cheese Recipe, which is another classic comfort food with a creamy twist. For a leaner, hearty option, check out the Turkey Chili With Beans, which shares some of the same bold flavors found in this bake.

Gather These Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni – the perfect pasta shape to hold onto all the chili flavors
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey – a lean protein base; turkey is a lighter option
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed – adds fiber and texture
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed – boosts the protein and color
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies – for that subtle kick
• 1 tablespoon chili powder – the star spice of this dish
• 1 teaspoon cumin – adds earthy warmth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for savory depth
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – rounds out the flavor profile
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp and melty
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – creamy and mild, balances cheddar
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasonings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for browning the meat
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth – keeps the pasta moist and flavorful
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional) – adds a fresh herbal note

Before You Start: Equipment

• Large pot – to cook the elbow macaroni until al dente
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for browning the meat and combining the chili ingredients
• 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for this pasta bake
• Mixing spoon or spatula – to stir everything together
• Measuring spoons and cups – for precise seasoning and liquid measurements
• Colander – to drain the pasta and rinse the beans
• Oven mitts – safety first when handling hot dishes

Chili Mac Pasta Bake Cooking Guide

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. It’s important not to overcook the pasta since it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or turkey. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Continue cooking until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Beans and Tomatoes

Stir in the drained kidney beans, black beans, and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Pour in 1 cup of beef or chicken broth to create a saucy base. Simmer everything together for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the liquid reduces slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chili Mixture

Remove the skillet from heat. Add the cooked pasta to the chili mixture and stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta and chili mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. For an extra crispy cheese topping, switch your oven to broil for the last 2 minutes—just watch carefully to avoid burning.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the bake rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm and enjoy a dish that’s both hearty and comforting.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

• Swap the ground meat for shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter twist with a holiday feel.
• Add a layer of crushed tortilla chips or corn chips on top before baking for added crunch.
• Mix in a cup of frozen corn kernels for a touch of sweetness and color.
• Use a blend of spicy pepper jack cheese with the Monterey Jack for a little extra heat.
• Top with sliced jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream to elevate the flavor profile.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

• Don’t overcook the pasta: It should be just al dente before baking to avoid a mushy texture.
• Drain and rinse the beans: This step removes excess sodium and helps keep the dish from becoming too saucy.
• Adjust seasoning carefully: The canned diced tomatoes with green chilies already add some salt and spice, so taste before adding extra.
• Watch the cheese during broiling: Cheese can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly under high heat.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Allow the Chili Mac Pasta Bake to cool completely at room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until hot.

If you want to freeze leftovers, portion the bake into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my pasta bake is too dry?

If the Chili Mac Pasta Bake seems dry after baking, it may be due to lack of enough broth or overcooked pasta. Next time, add a splash more broth before baking and be sure to cook the pasta only until al dente. You can also drizzle a little olive oil or add a spoonful of sour cream when serving to add moisture.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ground meat and add extra beans or cooked lentils for protein. You can also incorporate sautéed mushrooms or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to bulk it up and keep it flavorful.

How spicy is this dish?

This Chili Mac Pasta Bake has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the chili powder and diced tomatoes with green chilies. If you prefer it hotter, add diced jalapeños or increase the chili powder. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder or omit the green chilies.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the bake up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover tightly with foil and bake as directed when ready. This makes it a great recipe for meal prep or entertaining.

Weekend Projects

• Good Ole Mac And Cheese Recipe – Master a classic creamy mac and cheese from scratch this weekend.
• Turkey Chili With Beans – Whip up a flavorful chili that pairs beautifully with rice or cornbread.
• Easy Homemade Pasta – Try your hand at making fresh pasta and elevate your baked pasta dishes.
• Best Cheese Sauce Recipe – Create a rich cheese sauce perfect for drizzling over your baked pasta or veggies.

Bring It Home

With the perfect balance of spice, protein, and melted cheese, this Chili Mac Pasta Bake is destined to become a staple in your dinner rotation. It’s a wonderful way to combine pantry staples into a meal that feels special and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers warmth and comfort with every bite. The next time you’re craving something hearty and cheesy with a little kick, you know exactly where to turn.

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